Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that is easy to prepare, look no further than this delicious beef and cheese sandwich recipe. Packed with flavor from ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce, these sandwiches are sure to delight your family and friends. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering, follow this simple guide to create a dish that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the beef mixture:
1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
1 pound ground beef (preferably 85/15)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
For the cheese sauce:
6 slices provolone cheese (or white American)
¼ cup milk (whole or 2%)
Optional: 1 teaspoon cream cheese for extra creaminess
For serving:
4–6 burger buns (brioche recommended)
Butter for toasting the buns
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4–6 sandwiches
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Brown the beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Sauté the vegetables
Add the diced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add flavorings
Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle in the flour and mix well. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Prepare the cheese sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Add the cheese slices to the skillet along with the milk (and cream cheese if using). Stir until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce that coats the beef mixture.
Toast the buns
In a separate skillet or on a griddle, melt a little butter. Split the burger buns and toast them cut-side down until golden brown.
Assemble the sandwiches
Spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto the toasted buns. Serve hot.
Notes
Ground Beef
For the best texture and flavor, use ground beef that is 85% lean (15% fat).
Vegetables
Feel free to add or substitute vegetables, such as mushrooms or jalapeños, for added flavor.
Cheese Options
Provolone cheese provides a nice stretch, but white American is also a great option for a creamier sauce.
Bun Suggestions
Brioche buns are recommended for their richness and slight sweetness, but any burger bun will work.
Storage
Leftover beef and cheese mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Brown the beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Sauté the vegetables
Introduce the diced onions and bell peppers into the skillet. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute.
Add flavorings
Stir in the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and combine well. Allow it to simmer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
Prepare the cheese sauce
Lower the heat to low. Add the cheese slices and milk to the skillet, along with cream cheese if using. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce that coats the beef mixture.
Toast the buns
In a separate skillet or on a griddle, melt a bit of butter. Split the burger buns and toast them cut-side down until they turn golden brown.
Assemble the sandwiches
Spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto the toasted buns and serve hot.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, if you prefer.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and cheese mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cheese sauce in advance. Just reheat and toast the buns right before serving.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground beef alternative can be used as substitutes.
How do I make this dish spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture to increase the heat level.
Conclusion
This delicious beef and cheese sandwich features a perfectly seasoned beef mixture combined with a creamy cheese sauce, all served on toasted buns. It’s a comforting dish that can easily become a favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Beef and Cheese Sandwiches
Add jalapeños or diced chipotle peppers to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Beef and Mushroom Melt
Incorporate sliced mushrooms into the beef mixture for an earthy flavor that pairs well with the cheese.
BBQ Beef and Cheese Sliders
Substitute the ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor, and serve on slider buns for a party-friendly option.
Italian Beef and Cheese Sandwiches
Mix in Italian seasoning and serve with marinara sauce for a twist that brings an Italian flair.
Veggie-loaded Beef Sandwiches
Enhance the dish with additional vegetables such as diced zucchini or shredded carrots for added nutrition and texture.
